Fitting 2x SSD into iMac 27 Mid-2011 12.2

[Juicy Box]

expensive HDD caddies

I know “expensive” is subjective and relative, but I think using a caddy that is less than $10 isn’t expensive at all.

I prefer to use them, especially if I end up having to remove the drive for troubleshooting or any other reason, a lot easier then dealing with semi-permanent solution such as double sided tape.

 

[Nguyen Duc Hieu]

I know “expensive” is subjective and relative, but I think using a caddy that is less than $10 isn’t expensive at all.

I prefer to use them, especially if I end up having to remove the drive for troubleshooting or any other reason, a lot easier then dealing with semi-permanent solution such as double sided tape.

The caddy I bought which can hold 2 SSDs cost me 3$ including shipping charge.
On my iMac 2010, at first I used a thin aluminum case salvaged from a dead laptop to fix the SSD under the heatsink pipes.

 

[ful66]

Thanks for your replies.

Yes, this video shows you don't need a temperature sensor for the second SSD:

That's interesting. I was looking at the same Corsair adapter on Amazon too, and that's what gave me the idea. It's got to work, the dimensions state it's 23mm high, and the photo shows the SSD's don't protrude out past that dimension. Plus a standard 3.5" HDD measures 1" high, 24.5mm, so it fits within that measurement. It's got to be easier to buy that adapter and fit both into the main HDD bay, rather than remove the optical drive and stick it under there.

My drives are on order, but I don't know when they'll arrive. I'll order that Corsair adapter and give it a go when it arrives. I just need to buy some tools and the second drive cable, which I guess is this: https://www.macupgrades.co.uk/store/product_info.php?products_id=794

Might try the software fan controller first, or maybe even short the temperature sensor cables before resorting to buying the "temperature sensor" or whatever it is.

Hi Danjy,
I have a Imac 21.5 mid 20011 that I was given by a good friend. I have a Samsung 870 evo and WD 2.5" HDD i want to use as a data drive. I have orderd the Cosrsair dual drive bay (to mount the two together like you have) but have a few questions for you if you can possibly help me out it would be much appreciated! The only thing is i have the thermal sensor to install as well.
1) Do I need the a SATA power splitter like this https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/384990091516?
2) Does the motherboard have a spare SATA data port (i.e. i want to still use my optical drive, so is there a 3rd one!)?
3) If there is a spare SATA data port how do I trail in with regard to the position of the motherboard e.g. under the heat sink etc...?
Sorry but I'm a bit of a newbie and don't want to mess this up, I've taken apart PCs but Imacs are different beasts altogether!
Cheers for any info or advice.

 

[Nguyen Duc Hieu]

1) Yes
2) Yes
3) It's marked with "SATA", and locates next to other SATA ports. The SATA ports are almost in the center of the logicboard. Trail other SATA cables to find.

 

[ful66]

1) Yes
2) Yes
3) It's marked with "SATA", and locates next to other SATA ports. The SATA ports are almost in the center of the logicboard. Trail other SATA cables to find.

Hi, many thanks for the reply it's much appreciated. I don't suppose you know if there is a specific video tutorial out there that shows specifically how to install two hard drives in one bay,etc...? Thanks again for any information and help.

 

[Nguyen Duc Hieu]

Hi, many thanks for the reply it's much appreciated. I don't suppose you know if there is a specific video tutorial out there that shows specifically how to install two hard drives in one bay,etc...? Thanks again for any information and help.

Believe me, you don't need another video.
The photos and videos in this thread are adequate for this simple job.
When you disassemble the logicboard, you will find the SATA port right away.
However, if you need to prepare, try finding the extra cable (SATA + power) designed for iMac 2011. It's not essential, but nice to have, and not very expensive.

SSD Data HDD Cable for iMac 27

Smarter Shopping, Better Living! Aliexpress.com

www.aliexpress.com

If you really need more details just for reference purpose, visit the below thread.

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/2011-imac-sata-cable-for-2nd-hard-drive-ssd-under-optical-drive.2259803/post-29049078

 

[ful66]

Believe me, you don't need another video.
The photos and videos in this thread are adequate for this simple job.
When you disassemble the logicboard, you will find the SATA port right away.
However, if you need to prepare, try finding the extra cable (SATA + power) designed for iMac 2011. It's not essential, but nice to have, and not very expensive.

SSD Data HDD Cable for iMac 27

Smarter Shopping, Better Living! Aliexpress.com

www.aliexpress.com

If you really need more details just for reference purpose, visit the below thread.

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/2011-imac-sata-cable-for-2nd-hard-drive-ssd-under-optical-drive.2259803/post-29049078

Thanks again will have a look later, fingers crossed all goes well when I come to do it all! Your help has been appreciated.